Fatal accident during an attempt to prevent the sinking of a sailing ship in the Baltic, 11 July 2013 International waters, in the vicinity of Öland (Sweden)

Introduction

On July 11, 2013, the Norwegian flagged sailing vessel Wyvern sunk in international waters in the vicinity of Öland (Sweden).

The Dutch sailing ship Wylde Swan has responded to the emergency call from the Wyvern and has gone on site for assistance. All ten crew members of the Wyvern were saved by the Swedish rescue board.

The crew of the Wylde Swan has tried to save the Wyvern from sinking.Three crew members have gone on board to pump water out of the ship. The ship nevertheless sunk. One of the three crew members died.

Both ships took part in a Tall Ship Race 2013 in the Baltic Sea.

The Dutch Safety Board has investigated the fatal accident of the crewmember of the sailing vessel Wylde Swan.